Can closure

Abstract

A closure for cans of the type utilized for packaging carbonated soft drinks and beer is in the form of a pivotal closure tab secured by a rivet on the top end of the can. The closure is specifically designed for use with can having a pull tab opener and is secured to the same rivet utilized to mount the opening pull tab. A leading end of the pivotal closure tab is provided with a flange which is bent downwardly and registers with a peripheral groove on the top surface of the can. By first open the can with the pull tab, the pivotal closure may be used to reclose the can to preserve the purity and carbonation of the contents.

What is claimed as being new and desired to be protected by Letters Patent of the United States is as follows: 
     
       1. In a cylindrical beverage can having a circular top surface with a circular peripheral groove, score lines on the top surface defining an intended opening, a pull tab opener mounted by a rivet on the top surface adjacent the intended opening, the improvement comprising: a pivotal closure tab mounted on the top surface of the can by the rivet for movement about the rivet independently of the pull tab opener for selectively opening and closing the can after initial opening by the pull tab opener; and   said closure tab having an arcuate leading edge with an arcuate downwardly extending flange in registry with the circular peripheral groove on the can top surface.   
     
     
       2. The can closure of claim 1, wherein said pivotal closure tab has an end adjacent the rivet which tapers to a radiused apex. 
     
     
       3. The can closure of claim 1, wherein said pivotal closure tab is mounted on the rivet between the pull tab opener and the top surface of the can. 
     
     
       4. The can closure of claim 1, wherein said pivotal closure tab comprises a thin flat aluminum tab.